3 March 2023, CANBERRA – Chargé d’Affaires Aian Caringal conveyed the appreciation of the Philippine Government to the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) for the assistance they have provided to Filipino seafarers in a meeting with AMSA CEO Mick Kinley and Executive Director for Operations Michael Drake on 2 March at the AMSA office in Canberra.

As Australia’s national agency for maritime safety, AMSA has ensured the safety and welfare of Filipino seafarers who arrive in Australian waters. During the pandemic, AMSA ensured that foreign seafarers, especially those who were infected by COVID-19, receive the necessary treatment and support when their vessels reach Australian waters. They also take care of seafarers who are impacted by cases involving ship owners resulting in vessel abandonment.

Mr. Kinley underscored the importance of the contribution of the Philippines in supporting the global shipping industry and expressed appreciation for the efforts taken by the Philippines to ensure that Filipino seafarers continue to be deployed during pandemic conditions.

During the meeting, AMSA provided a briefing on their operations in particular maritime aviation search and rescue. CDA Caringal informed AMSA that maritime cooperation is a core pillar of the bilateral relations of the Philippines and Australia and the two countries committed to collaborate further on marine environmental protection and maritime transport cooperation. -- END